Calling all fans, cosplayers, and manga enthusiasts: a huge anime festival is coming to Calgary next month, and it’s a three-day paradise for anyone who loves Japanese pop culture.
Otafest is a volunteer-run, non-profit, all-ages Japanese anime and pop culture festival in Calgary. Enjoy everything from anime screenings to a bustling exhibitor hall complete with community panels, cosplay contests, voice actors, concerts, and food.
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Here’s what to know before you go.
What to expect
This is a quick rundown of the many events and activations you’ll find at Otafest.
Entertainment
- Otafest AMPLIFIED: This concert and dance party features musical guests across various genres.
- The Ota Factor: A singing competition showcasing local vocal talent.
- Idol Festival: Enjoy competitive and showcase performances by J-pop and K-pop dance cover groups.
Themed experiences
- Maid & Butler Café: Reserve your seat at the Maid and Butler Café and enjoy food, performances, games, and more.
Cosplay
- Cosplay, Contests & Repair Station: Cosplay contests for all skill levels, with an on-site repair station for last-minute fixes.
- How It’s Made: Cosplay Edition: See creators showcase their cosplay projects and share crafting techniques.
- Cosplay Meetups: Scheduled group photoshoots for fans of specific series or fandoms.
Activities
- Arcade: Participate in competitive tournaments, casual gaming, and mobile/digital card games.
- Pokémon League: An area for fans to battle, earn real-life badges, participate in panels, and enjoy mini-games.
- Gunpla Hangar: A hub for building Gundam model kits, attending related panels, and entering showcase contests.
Exhibits
- Exhibitor Hall: Browse a huge marketplace featuring artists, vendors, and industry professionals offering a variety of merchandise and art.
- Autographs & Guest Panels: Opportunities to meet voice actors, cosplayers, and other guests, attend panels, and obtain autographs.
- Sketch Drive: Commission themed sketches from artists, with proceeds benefiting charity.
- Manga Library: A quiet space to relax and read from a collection of manga and light novels.
Shows
- Community Panels: Interactive sessions hosted by community members, ranging from discussions to game shows.
- Anime Showings: Screenings of various anime series throughout the weekend.
- AMV Contest & Showings: A showcase of anime music videos, including a contest where you can vote for your favourites.
Community
- Charity Auction: Bid on unique items and lots donated by the community, Otafest’s sponsors, and others.
- CONbini: A pop-up Japanese convenience store offering specialty snacks, baked goods, and drinks.
- Community Corner: A platform for local conventions, non-profits, and groups to share projects. Get involved!
Event schedule
Excited yet? Get your tickets early, there are both day and weekend passes available.
Friday, May 16, 2025
- Admissions from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Festival hours from 10 a.m. to midnight
- Exhibitor Hall from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Admissions from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Festival hours from 10 a.m. to midnight
- Exhibitor Hall from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 18, 2025
- Admissions from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Festival hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Exhibitor Hall from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Start planning your cosplay costume, the Otafest anime festival will be here before you know it!
Otafest
When: Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18, 2025
Where: Calgary Telus Convention Centre — 120 9th Ave. SE, Calgary
Cost: $58.69+
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Alicia Lyons
Staff Writer
Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not writing, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling up under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.
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